What to Expect at Your First BCBA Assessment

The first assessment is where your child's ABA journey really begins — and if you're not sure what it involves, the uncertainty can feel daunting. Good news: it's far friendlier than it sounds. Think of it less like a test and more like a getting-to-know-you visit, with your child at the center and your priorities leading the way.

What the assessment is for

A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) conducts the assessment to understand your child as a whole person — their strengths, their interests, where they need support, and what matters most to your family. Everything that follows (the goals, the recommended hours, the approach) is built on what's learned here. It's the foundation of a truly individualized program, which is why it's worth doing thoughtfully. You can see how we structure it on our assessment process page.

What actually happens during the visit

Every assessment is a little different, but most include some mix of:

• Conversation with you. You know your child best. The BCBA will ask about their history, daily routines, what's going well, what's hard, and what you hope to see change. Your input isn't a formality — it shapes the entire plan.
• Observing your child. Often through play. The BCBA watches how your child communicates, plays, responds to their environment, and handles transitions — in a relaxed, low-pressure way.
• Direct interaction. The BCBA may gently engage your child in activities to get a clearer picture of specific skills.
• Structured assessment tools. Established tools (such as the VB-MAPP or Vineland) help map your child's current skills across areas like communication, social interaction, and daily living.

There's no passing or failing. Your child doesn't need to perform or prepare. The aim is simply an honest, accurate picture.

How your priorities shape the plan

This is the part many families don't realize: you help set the direction. A good BCBA will ask what matters most to you. Is it communication? Safety? Easier mornings? Being able to go to the grocery store as a family? Your answers help prioritize goals, so the program targets what will make the biggest difference in your real life — not a generic checklist.

How to prepare (lightly)

• Jot down your top concerns and hopes ahead of time.
• Bring any relevant reports — the diagnostic evaluation, notes from other providers.
• Have your child's favorite toys or snacks on hand. Comfort helps them be themselves.
• Plan for it to be relaxed. Your calm helps your child feel at ease.

What comes after

Following the assessment, the BCBA develops an individualized treatment plan — goals, recommended hours, and approach — and reviews it with you. If your child's services run through insurance, this plan is typically submitted for authorization before ongoing therapy begins. From there, you're partners: you'll review goals together and adjust as your child grows.

How Animate Behavior approaches it

Because we keep caseloads small, the BCBA who assesses your child is the one who designs and oversees their program — someone who actually gets to know your child and your goals. We build programs from scratch, in English or Spanish, for families in Emeryville, Concord, and across the East Bay. If you have questions before your first assessment, reach out: call (510) 500-5124 or email clientservices@animatebehavior.com, and a clinician will get back to you within one business day.

This article is general information, not medical advice. Please talk with your child's physician or care team about decisions specific to your child.